Content Management System (CMS)
Software that lets you create, edit, and publish website content without needing to write code.
A content management system is the software that powers your website and lets you update it without calling a developer. WordPress, Squarespace, Wix, and Shopify are all examples of CMS platforms. They provide a visual editor where you can write blog posts, update your services page, add images, and manage your site’s structure — all without touching a line of code.
For small businesses, choosing the right CMS is one of the most important early decisions. WordPress powers roughly 40% of all websites and offers the most flexibility, but it requires more maintenance and security attention. Squarespace and Wix are simpler to use but offer less customization. Shopify excels for e-commerce. The best choice depends on your technical comfort level, budget, and what you need your site to do.
The right CMS should make it easy for you to publish new content regularly, which is critical for SEO and keeping your site fresh. If updating your website feels like a chore that requires help from a developer, your CMS may be working against you. Look for one that lets you or your team make routine updates — new blog posts, updated hours, fresh photos — in minutes rather than hours.
Modern CMS options also handle important technical details like mobile responsiveness, page speed optimization, and basic SEO settings, helping your site perform well in search results without requiring deep technical knowledge.